Labrador Retriever - Grooming

Labrador Retriever - Grooming

Labrador like most of the dogs shed. Yellow Labradors retrievers shed thought out the year at a moderate rate whereas the black Labradors retrievers shed heavily during spring and fall. Since the breed is shorthaired and the coat is water resistant the coat is easy to take care of -

1. Bathing intervals can be around 3 months.
2. The coat should be brushed regularly to help keep it clean and shiny. You can use a stiff bristle brush and then a comb to remove any dead hair.
3. Trim the nails with a pliers-type nail clipper and to prevent the nails from splitting, cut only the tips of the nails and check not to cut the quick.
4. The ears should be cleaned weekly, using ear-cleaning solutions
5. The nails should be checked monthly to see if clipping is required.
6. The hair on the muzzle can be trimmed if required.

Precautions
1. Never shave your Labradors Retrievers.
2. Dry them immediately after a bath.
3. Always keep antiseptic powers or spray handy when clipping the nails – you may need to use if you cut too deep.
4. Keep a check on heavy shedding and check for mites, ticks or lice that may be the underlying cause- contact your vet in such a case.

Tips
§ A light finish spray of coat gloss will make the coat look beautiful.
§ Always brush in the direction of the coat.

Links
http://www.all-about-labradors.com/labradorretrievergrooming.html
http://www.wagmytail.com/dog-breeds/groom-labrador-retriever.htm